Banquettes are perfect for cramped dining spaces.
Learn the ins and outs of these space-savvy seating solutions to find the style that’s right for you.
Boldly patterned seat cushions add visual weight to the all-white space and adjoining kitchen.
A dainty light fixture overhead boosts visibility after dark without overwhelming the tiny space.
Sun-Drenched Breakfast Nook
Banquette seating options make the most of underused spaces.
Modern Appeal
Abay windowprovides a sunny backdrop for this storage-packed built-in banquette.
Contemporary chairs pair nicely with a sleek, modern table and a whimsical light fixture.
This sun-drenched space offers the perfect setting for a breakfast nook.
The slim table provides plenty of room for casual dining without disrupting traffic flow.
This built-in takes advantage of an unused corner.
Space-Smart Banquette
Banquettes can lend storage space to kitchens without much.
The top of this L-shaped bench lifts to reveal storage for rarely-used kitchen equipment.
An open round tabletop provides plenty of space for casual family dinners and more.
The L-shaped bench stretches across the spare wall, transforming a potentially awkward space into something useful.
Convenient built-ins on each side provide storage for breakfast dishes and everyday dining essentials.
A graphic seat cushion and throw pillows add visual interest to the all-white kitchen.
Small but Mighty
A tiny L-shaped banquette tucks neatly into a corner of this cottage kitchen.
Topped by windows, the bench provides a sunny spot to enjoy a relaxing breakfast or the morning paper.
A small table fits snugly against the bench without interrupting the traffic flow around the kitchen island.
Freestanding Banquette
Banquettes need not be built in to be functional.
Here, freestanding upholstered benches give an elegant yet casual feel to a breakfast nook.
The simple white fabric is a neutral backdrop to patterned blue-and-white throw pillows and colorful dinnerware.
A wicker chair adds seating that can easily be moved to accommodate a buffet or drink station for entertaining.
Energetic Style
Open floorplans lend themselves well to built-in banquettes.
In addition to seating space, the banquette contains storage for serving platters and other kitchen equipment.
The table’s dropleaf clears the way for traffic but can be raised to accommodate extra diners.
A simple wraparound bench lines one side of the sleek, modern table to boost seating and style.
Functional Beauty
A semicircular banquette creates an intimate gathering spot in this family home.
Outfitted with stain-resistant fabrics and a zinc tabletop, the space is both beautiful and hardworking.
An extra chair incorporates additional seating, but can be moved for easy bench access.
Bamboo chairs and window shades play up the kitchen’s cheerful, beachy aesthetic.
Semiformal
A cushioned window seat doubles as a sunny breakfast banquette in this traditional kitchen.
Freestanding chairs around the table provide additional seating.
